If it were possible to turn back the clock and reverse controversial political decisions, it’s a safe bet that the railway closures of the 60s would be at the top of the list.
Sixty years on and an undiminished nostalgia for steam is now coupled with a growing demand for rail experiences.
Both are excellently catered for by specialist rail holiday company Ffestiniog Travel whose newly launched 2026 programme sees the company branching out to offer train journeys in Mexico, Thailand, Norway, Denmark, Puglia and Turkey.
It’s a travel success story that began with a young man’s passion for railways, when founder Alan Heywood first encountered the Ffestiniog Railway in North Wales in 1955, on a school trip to mark the reopening of the narrow-gauge line after nine years of closure.
He stayed on as a volunteer and by the late 60s Alan had joined the staff to become Traffic Manager, helping to run what would become one of the world’s most admired heritage railways.
Following the de-staffing of Cambrian Station, Ffestiniog dipped into the world of selling UK rail tickets and expanded into Sealink ferry crossing and continental train tickets – one stop way from including accommodation and the first escorted tour to Switzerland in 1974.
Enter Ffestiniog Travel and from small beginnings new destinations were added throughout Europe, North America, India and New Zealand. Countries that passed scenic route and culture hurdles became a candidate for the Ffestiniog itinerary.
In 1992, Ffestiniog joined with the railway and is now owned by the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highlands Railways Trust.
Every holiday booked directly supports the preservation and development of the historic Welsh lines; a link between modern travel and heritage conservation that has resulted in donations of over £1m.
Responding to evolving travel tastes, Ffestiniog Travel’s portfolio falls into several categories:-
• Connoisseur Tours – crafted for enthusiasts combining steam charters, heritage railways and behind-the-scenes access
• Grand Tours for those seeking scenery, culture and discovery
• Tailored Rail services, building bespoke rail-based holidays for independent travellers, couples and private groups
The company also offers a Small & Traditional collection, travelling to destinations away from mainstream tourism and focusing on rural communities and authentic experiences; a chance to step back in time
Romania was the first stop and, under the guidance of General Manager Maria Cook, has now been joined by Georgia, Armenia, Uzbeskistan, Kyrgystan, Montenegro and Albania.
“As a specialist rail tour operator, established in 1974, we are experts in rail travel across the globe.
“We can provide informative advice to the travelling public about helping them plan train journeys and memorable travel experiences,” said Maria.
Ffestiniog Travel has launched its 2026 Rail Holidays of the World brochure, packed with inspiring escorted tours and journeys for those who love to explore the world by train.
The new programme features classic favourites and brand-new itineraries,
to Mexico, Thailand, Norway, Denmark, Puglia and Turkey, offering travellers the chance to enjoy unique railway experiences while immersing themselves in diverse cultures and landscapes.
W www.ffestiniogtravel.com
E info@ffestiniogtravel.co.uk
T 01766 512400
And to read more in Exploring More magazine –
https://exploringmore.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/EM_issue1.pdf
